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Highs: Well-paced and well-written ending to the story
Lows: Same plot device that plagued the series
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Reviewed: 12/19/2002
Grade: 90%
Card Captor Sakura: The Sealed Card is a beautifully animated conclusion to the story of Card Captor Sakura. Clocking in at about ninety minutes, this movie has the energy and pacing that transcends above and beyond the potential tediousness of the television series.
As the story picks up where Card Captor Sakura left off, the movie is directed at long-time viewers of the show. With very little exposition about the past, those who have not seen any of the show will definitely feel lost (do not watch this until after the end of the series as many elements of the story are resolved). Experienced fans will be delighted as they will notice that almost all the characters from the series make an appearance in this movie. The focus in this story, however, is entirely on Sakura and Shaoran. The character of Sakura, in particular, really stands out with another great performance by her seiyuu, as well as insight into her character that the series does not provide.
One other feature of the series that also made its way here is the "about to tell you something but suddenly interrupted" plot device, which is used again to provide dramatic suspense. Usually this wouldn't be so noticeable, but with its overuse in the latter part of the series and again in this format, it becomes almost laughable.
Fortunately, the rest of the story makes up for this one flaw. This movie is almost required for anyone who watched and appreciated Card Captor Sakura as it ties up all the loose ends of the series. Combining a charming and romantic story, some great vocal songs and a good bit of action, Card Captor Sakura: The Sealed Card is a fitting conclusion to an enjoyable series.
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